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Description

Transform your studio recordings with the Audient MICO, a compact 2-channel effects processor that delivers professional-grade sound in a desktop-friendly package. This versatile unit combines Audient’s renowned Class A design with innovative features, making it a must-have for any musician or producer looking to elevate their sound.

Channel 1 is equipped with the HMX harmonic sculpting technology, borrowed from Audient's Black Pre, offering you the ability to infuse your tracks with a rich, vintage vibe at the turn of a knob. Meanwhile, Channel 2 provides Variphase control, allowing for precise phase alignment between dual microphones or mic and DI setups, unlocking creative possibilities in your recordings.

The MICO also boasts high-quality analog-to-digital conversion, supporting up to 96kHz with an ultra-low jitter internal clock. Connectivity is robust, with AES/EBU, S/PDIF coaxial, and TOSlink outputs, ensuring seamless integration into any setup. This, combined with features like switchable high-pass filters, phase invert, and a 10dB pad, positions the MICO as a powerhouse in a small form factor.

Whether you're capturing the subtleties of a vocal performance or layering complex instrumentals, the Audient MICO is designed to meet the demands of modern recording, all while fitting comfortably on your desktop.

Key Features:

  • Class A discrete mic preamps for outstanding sonic transparency
  • Channel 1: HMX harmonic sculpting for vintage character
  • Channel 2: Variphase control for precise phase alignment
  • Ultra-high performance 24-bit A/D conversion
  • Front panel DI input and rear panel Mic/Line inputs
  • Switchable high-pass filters and 48V phantom power
  • Multiple output options: AES/EBU, S/PDIF coaxial, and TOSlink
  • Supports word clock input with switchable termination

Product specs

Brand Audient
Model Mico 2-Channel Microphone Preamp with A/D Converter
Finish Silver
Year 2010s
Categories Microphone Preamps
Bit Depth 24-bit
Digital Output Format ADAT/Optical, AES/EBU, S/PIDF
Electronics Analog, Digital, Solid State
Format Half Rackmount
Number of Analog Inputs 2
Number of Analog Outputs 2
Number of Channels 2
Number of Digital Inputs 0
Number of Digital Outputs 6
Sample Rate 96 khz

FAQs

What are the main connectivity options for the Audient MICO?

The Audient MICO offers digital output formats including ADAT/Optical, AES/EBU, and S/PDIF, with two analog inputs and outputs, making it versatile for various recording setups.

Is the Audient MICO suitable for high-resolution audio recording?

Yes, the Audient MICO supports a sample rate of 96 kHz and a bit depth of 24-bit, providing high-resolution audio recording capabilities.

Can the Audient MICO be used for both analog and digital recording?

Yes, the Audient MICO features both analog and digital electronics, allowing you to use it for a variety of recording applications.

How many channels does the Audient MICO preamp support?

The Audient MICO is a 2-channel microphone preamp, perfect for recording stereo sources or dual mono setups.

Does the Audient MICO include digital inputs?

No, the Audient MICO does not have digital inputs; it features two analog inputs and six digital outputs.

Marius Schulte

Marius Schulte

Preamp Comparison (Yamaha D-Pre / Audient Mico Preamp)

Video thumbnail for Preamp Comparison (Yamaha D-Pre / Audient Mico Preamp) by Marius Schulte

Preamp Comparison (Yamaha D-Pre / Audient Mico Preamp)

Marius Schulte

Marius Schulte

Video thumbnail for Préampli AUDIENT Mico  (Home Studio) by Home Studio

Préampli AUDIENT Mico (Home Studio)

Home Studio

Home Studio

Video thumbnail for Audient MiCO Dual Microphone Preamplifier Overview | Full Compass by Full Compass

Audient MiCO Dual Microphone Preamplifier Overview | Full Compass

Full Compass

Full Compass

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Audient MICO.

Build quality

  • Audient Mico components reportedly failed after minimal use, requiring extensive repairs and impacting long-term reliability perceptions.

    Source

User experience

  • Audient's customer support is highly responsive, providing schematics and replacement parts even for out-of-warranty devices, though misdiagnosis can occur without hands-on testing.

    Source
  • After several years of use, one owner reports the ASP880 as reliable with flexible routing options, leveraging dsub connectors for integration with outboard gear.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Users with long-term experience favor RME and Motu interfaces for their enduring reliability over Audient products, citing fewer issues over extended periods.

    Source
  • Despite Audient's customer support, the perceived build-to-price approach affects reliability, making alternatives like RME and Motu more appealing for longevity.

    Source
  • ASP800 preamps are noted for better clarity and high-fidelity sound compared to the ADA8200's preamps, though converters in the ADA8200 hold up well.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The ASP800 supports sample rates up to 96kHz and offers 70dB of gain on its mic pres, making it suitable for low-output dynamics and ribbons.

    Source
  • The Audient Mico includes both SPDIF and TOSLINK connections but lacks ADAT capability, making it suitable for SPDIF-based setups with interfaces like the Apollo Twin.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • ASP800 lacks a power switch, requiring external power control to prevent continuous operation which can affect longevity.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Audient ASP800 is highly recommended for drum recordings due to its preamp quality.

    Source
  • For those needing fewer channels, the Audient Mico serves as a compact alternative to larger 8-channel rack units, ideal for portable gigs where space is limited.

    Source

Other

  • Behringer ADA8200 users report issues like noisier performance compared to other preamps and occasional channel failures.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Audient Mico

soundonsound.com

The Audient MICO delivers a well-built, two-channel mic preamp experience packed with features like harmonic distortion and phase alignment, making it a solid choice for home studios. Its clean and transparent sound, along with a built-in A-D converter, enhances its appeal. However, the rear-panel controls for sample rate selection can be inconvenient, particularly for rack-mounted setups, and the Variphase feature, while innovative, doesn't replace true time alignment. Still, the MICO stands out as a versatile and affordable option in its category.

positive

Review: Audient Mico — AudioTechnology

audiotechnology.com

Audient's Mico delivers exceptional sound quality and impressive versatility at a competitive price. With its robust build and dual-channel mic preamps offering up to 66dB of gain, it stands out as a reliable choice for serious audio work. The standout features include the 'Variphase' control for precise phase alignment and the 'HMX' circuit that adds harmonic richness. However, potential buyers should note the less desirable 'line-wart' power supply and the absence of a power switch, which may detract from user convenience. Overall, the Mico is a solid investment for musicians and engineers seeking professional-grade sound without breaking the bank.

positive

Audient MiCO review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

Audient's MiCO delivers exceptional sound quality at an unbeatable price, featuring high-end mic preamps and innovative controls like HMX harmonic variation for added tonal depth. However, its half-rack design may frustrate users who prefer more ergonomic units, especially given the rear-mounted sample rate switches. Still, for those seeking professional-grade audio on a budget, the MiCO stands out as a compelling choice in its class.

positive

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